US Expands Military Support and Intelligence Sharing With Nigeria

The United States has stepped up military cooperation with Nigeria, increasing equipment deliveries and intelligence sharing as part of a broader campaign against Islamic State-linked militant groups across Africa.

A senior US Africa Command official said the enhanced collaboration reflects Washington’s growing focus on working closely with African militaries to counter jihadist threats, particularly in West Africa.

The United States has also maintained informal communication channels with military authorities in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, despite diplomatic tensions following recent coups in those countries.

US officials said the renewed engagement with Nigeria follows increased pressure on Abuja over insecurity, alongside a more aggressive American posture toward Islamic State-affiliated groups operating across the continent.

Recent cooperation includes intelligence support for Nigerian air operations in both the northwest and the northeast, where insurgent groups have remained active for over a decade.

While analysts have questioned the effectiveness of air-based operations alone, US officials insist that intelligence sharing, operational support, and capacity building remain central to the partnership.

The United States has also ruled out establishing new long-term military bases in West Africa, saying its focus is on targeted support rather than permanent deployment.